Mirage 27 Information, Review, Specs

Sailing Performance & Handling

The Mirage 27 is often characterized by its "stiff" and predictable nature, a hallmark of Robert Perry’s design philosophy during the late 1970s and early 1980s. With a high ballast-to-displacement ratio (often approaching 40% depending on the specific engine and keel configuration), the boat stands up well to its canvas in a breeze. While the original Mirage 24 was a specialized racer, the 27 was designed as a "Performance Cruiser." This is reflected in its masthead sloop rig and a hull form that balances a fine entry for upwind work with enough volume aft to provide stability when reaching.

According to technical retrospectives found in Canadian Yachting, the boat tracks exceptionally well compared to its more "nervous" racing siblings like the Kirby 25. Its Displacement/Length ratio sits in the moderate range, allowing it to maintain momentum through a chop, a quality highly valued by Great Lakes sailors who frequently encountered the steep, short waves common to Mirage’s home waters. Owners typically report that the boat becomes truly alive in 10 to 15 knots of wind, where its balanced ends and generous rudder surface area provide a light touch on the tiller, even when heeled.

Interior Comfort & Variations

The primary differentiator between the Mirage 27 and the earlier 26 was the optimization of the interior living space. By extending the hull, Perry and the Steffen design team were able to create a layout that felt significantly larger than its 27-foot designation would suggest. The interior is traditionally arranged with a V-berth forward, followed by a full-width head—a luxury in a boat of this size at the time. The main salon features a folding table and settees that double as berths, with the 27-foot model offering slightly more elbow room and storage than the 26.

Materials typically included a heavy use of teak plywood and solid teak trim, creating a warm, traditional aesthetic. The galley is generally located near the companionway for ventilation, featuring a two-burner stove and a deep icebox. Because the Mirage 27 was built on the same "logic" as the 26, many of the interior components are interchangeable, though the 27 often benefited from the "French Invasion" influence toward the end of its production run, seeing slightly brighter finishes and improved upholstery. It is important to distinguish this Perry-designed Mirage 27 from the later Philippe Harlé-designed Mirage 270 and 275, which utilized a completely different hull form with wider beams and aft-cabin layouts.

Known Issues & Buyer’s Checklist

Prospective buyers of a Mirage 27 should approach the vessel with a focus on its age-related structural integrity. While the hulls are robustly built with solid fiberglass below the waterline, the decks utilize a balsa wood core that is susceptible to rot if deck hardware was not properly re-bedded over the decades.

• Deck Delamination: Pay close attention to soft spots around the chainplates, stanchion bases, and the mast step. Moisture ingress in these areas is a common issue for Mirage models of this era.
• Chainplate Leaks: The design of the chainplates on the 27 can lead to slow leaks that migrate down the bulkheads. Check for water staining or "mushy" wood where the bulkheads meet the hull.
• Engine Maintenance: Most Mirage 27s were equipped with Yanmar or Volvo Penta diesel engines, though some early models may still carry the Atomic 4 gasoline engine. Inspect the motor mounts and the exhaust elbow for corrosion, as these are frequent failure points in 40-year-old cooling systems.
• Rudder Play: The rudder bearings and the internal structure of the rudder blade should be checked for "wicking" or water saturation, which can lead to delamination of the blade halves or corrosion of the internal stainless steel armature.

Community & Resources

The Mirage 27 enjoys a dedicated following, particularly in the Pacific Northwest and the Great Lakes regions. Owners often congregate through general Robert Perry design groups and the Mirage Sailors Facebook Group, which serves as a primary hub for technical exchange and parts sourcing for these discontinued Canadian classics.

The Verdict

The Mirage 27 remains one of the most successful "all-rounder" yachts of the 1980s. It offers a sophisticated Robert Perry hull that can still hold its own in club racing while providing the interior volume necessary for a family of four to cruise comfortably for a week.

Pros:

• Excellent stability and "big boat" feel in heavy air.
• High-quality Robert Perry design lineage ensures good resale value.
• Manageable size for single-handed sailing or beginners.
• Traditional teak interior provides a classic, cozy atmosphere.

Cons:

• Balsa-cored decks require vigilant maintenance to avoid expensive rot.
• The masthead rig requires a large genoa to perform well in light air, which can be taxing for smaller crews.
• Older engines and original wiring often require significant upgrading for modern coastal cruising.